FM Bass Patch Programming

This video goes deep into the details of programming an FM bass patch on the Yamaha DX11.
To duplicate the patch in the video, perform a voice initialization, and then make these changes:
Algorithm 5
Feedback Level (OP4) 6
Coarse Oscillator Ratio (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 0.5, 0.5, 2.0, 0.5
Fine Oscillator Ratio (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 0.5, 0.5, 2.0, 0.5
Detune (OP1, 2, 3, 4) -3, -2, +3, +2
Attack Rate (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 31, 26, 31, 26
Decay 1 Rate (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 11, 8, 11, 6
Release Rate (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 10, 6, 10, 6
Decay 1 Level (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 13, 9, 13, 9
Output Level (OP1, 2, 3, 4) 88, 85, 88, 80
#fmsynth #synth #synthesizer

[@streck0486]

Most other tutorials: "Here's how FM synthesis works, in principle. But I don't have a clue what to do with it." Synthesizer Keith: "Here's how you get the sound you want using FM synthesis."

[@wgriffin1024]

This is the most valuable DX pseudocode lesson I've ever seen.

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks. FM seems difficult until someone shows you the basics.

[@lakebergr]

Please make about 10 to 15 more of these. This is the most clear and thorough explanation of FM synthesis that I have ever come across!

[@user-vz6bk6nw6i]

Yes please we need more!

[@MichaelHarmanWoodDesign]

This is the best (maybe only) strategic approach to FM synthesis that I have seen. Your approach creates a framework for development of any sound.

[@clydiscope]

The scientific language he uses to describe his workflow is so refreshing!

[@mustamato]

This is the first time i actually understood something about FM synthesis! Thanks!

[@krmelectronics]

You are most welcome Mustamato. Thanks for the comment.

[@markallasred6034]

Thank you for having real information to give.

[@tuesss]

I'm pretty sure this is the best synth programming tutorial I've ever seen, not just FM, but in general. Every decision has the reasoning behind it explained in detail. Great work, thank you and I'd love to see more videos like this!

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the compliment Tues.

[@user-vz6bk6nw6i]

It s a fantastic Tutorial!

[@johnd7564]

I have watched a LOT of FM synthesis tutorials, but always end up randomly casting about for cool sounds. I always find them, but it can take a long time. This is the most methodical, clear presentation I've ever seen on how to program a patch in my synth. And I'm not even using a Yamaha synth! Thank you !!!

[@krmelectronics]

Thank you for the compliment.

[@tomlopez7819]

Seriously, like the man says, if you plan out your patches in advance and think about them your time will be rewarded. Thanks for sharing your insights.

[@Nenko_Music]

concise , complete tutorial, with just a touch of humor (the Tea touch :D) and a nice beard. ... I salute you sir for this formidable upload .

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the compliment DaeDoNenko.

[@timothysobina6777]

Your explanations of the modulators, algorithms, feedbacks, controllers, envelopes, decays, etc has got to be the most wonderful explanation I have ever seen/heard. Yrs ago, I programmed my DX7S, DX711 AND DX711FD for our band and I got a pretty good handle on this technology (back then) after I went nuts trying to figure it all out trial and error, and, now, to see your explanations are truly AWESOME! Thank you! Please keep the videos coming with more advice on FM synthesis! 🎹

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the compliment Timothy!

[@Robbinsffxi]

I approach FM differently. I like to build sounds by imagining the sound, breaking it down to the three different overtone types. Harmonics (Ratio) , Enharmonics (fine tune) and disharmonics (fixed Frequency). Then I listen to the sound to decide if I need more dense complexity (Stack hight), and/or additional complexity (Stack width).

[@tomlopez7819]

That's the beauty if patch design, so many options, so many approaches. Quite a nice mixture of art and science.

[@NunyaB1s]

I would love to see some of this in action. My problem right now is that I can’t understand op stacks > 2. How do you harness that complexity you’re talking about here?

[@chinossynthesizer705]

How do you copy Sega Genesis 4op sounds on to a fm synth like the opsix

[@Robbinsffxi]

@@chinossynthesizer705 It's kind of hard as they sound different due to audio quality, and it affects the sound alot. You can't directly copy them either. But you can try to dial in the same parameters and get a similar result.

[@Robbinsffxi]

@@NunyaB1s When you have two operators stacked. The Carrier (the bottom which is the one you hear) is only producing a sine wave (normaly). You can control it's pitch, amplitude and frequencies. If you want some more complexity (as Sine wave has no overtones) you can stack a modulator on top of it, which works identically to the carrier except that the modulator affects the wave of the carrier. Once you boost the volume of the modulator the tone gets more complex (harser) Then you can play around with the ratio (frequency multiplier) of the modulator to get different tones. If you stack a third modulator on top of the first modulator, the sound gets even more complex, because it adds a third level. If you have two modulators modulating the carrier however, it's not more complex, but just more variation if the same level of complexity. So vertical stacking of operators makes more complex (more overtones). With two operators you can make a flute. With three stacked on top of each other, you can make a sax.

[@smilingbuddha2836]

I just subscribed. As a tech myself who repairs old synths I really appreciate this channel. Everything is spot on: your explanation; knowledge; and especially the way you connect with people at any level of experience. We will never stop learning.

[@onceuponasynth]

Probably the best FM synth programming video I've seen. The patch sounded awesome, especially towards the end with the feedback. Very well explained! By the way is that an iron ring you're wearing? What kind of engineering did you study?

[@smilingbuddha2836]

Great question. I would like to know as well.

[@everettleonel2844]

i guess im asking the wrong place but does anyone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account? I stupidly forgot the login password. I love any help you can offer me!

[@everettleonel2844]

@Mohammad Mustafa i really appreciate your reply. I found the site on google and Im trying it out atm. I see it takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@everettleonel2844]

@Mohammad Mustafa It did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thanks so much, you saved my ass!

[@mohammadmustafa3565]

@Everett Leonel glad I could help =)

[@andymellor9056]

Having obtained my son's cast off DX11 this is invaluable. Very well structured explanation, logical thought process and approach. 👽🧡

[@ratchetheros]

Never thought i would end up watching Rasputin explaing FM Bass Synthesis. Great video Grigorij

[@imagesofstyle]

The most practical and useful video I've seen so far on how to actually design a sound with FM synthesis. Ironically, I remembered seeing it a while back, but couldn't find it by searching for "FM synth sound design."

[@CommunityGuidelines]

Thank you for taking the time to make these two FM synthesis videos. Very concise and educational!

[@trevor4835]

Such an awesome breakdown. Thanks for passing on some valuable knowledge to point us in the right direction!

[@neilk575]

Would love more videos like this Keith, you explain it so well

[@nigelrogers8690]

Thank you for demystifying, and giving such a patient nuts and bolts explanation. So many highly knowledgeable synth youtubers assume their viewers already know the very basics and as a newbie I've found this really frustrating. Very much appreciate your approach, enjoy your tea, well earned

[@jrcryo]

Very good explanation on FM Bass, with this you can apply it to every FM synth.

[@AdamTheAd-vanc3d]

Intensly useful. Ive dabbled with fm for some years now . This video has helped comfirm some of my knowledge and also taught me more :-)

[@PnPModular]

Your videos are invaluable mate thanks for making them

[@darkeco]

I've just stumbled upon you, Keith, and you're already my favourite person on the internet, right down to the beard and soul piercing eyes.

[@emmanuelbrowne4788]

This is a GREAT tutorial. Thank you for really going in-depth about FM sound design.

[@Rulon-bo1ig]

I know these videos are old but thank you for these in-depth explanations. I’ve been learning deep fm synthesis within Dixie( 6 operators with the original dx7 algorithms) and I’ve learnt so much so far, especially changing the timbres with rate scaling, curvature and ratios and levels. I’ve finally been able to create pads, ambient sounds, BASS on my own...Add a good reverb and delay pedal and you’ve got yourself a great time!

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks. I'm glad you found the information useful.

[@gabrieldincao5749]

i understand fm synthesis now thank to you. THANK YOU

[@kojik4271]

I love this. Exactly what I was looking for. The glasses and beard are dope

[@jasondoe2596]

I know absolutely nothing about synthesizers (of any kind), and this was... surprisingly fascinating. Great video!

[@frank2398]

Thank you so much! About a year ago I came across my DX11 at my local Goodwill. Bought it for $12. Perfect condition. I have used it only as a controller for FL Studio 12, which it has been amazing as far as that. I've been looking for a video about how to program it directly. Excellent job. Having a lot of fun with it now!

[@justcama]

$12 !?!??!?!?!?!?!

[@dcashley303]

Good stuff, I just got my first FM synth in the form of the Volca FM and although I am understanding it all by now this designing side of things I always ignore (I usually just tweaking about with no goal in mind) but lots of worthwhile things to think about here that will be helpful. Thanks!

[@LondraCalibro9]

best practical fm programming video - beautifully explained and inspiring - thank you! I'm using the TX81Z, these synths are monsters.

[@functionform]

I highly doubt the tea was still warm at the end. Thank you!

[@lucassmith5634]

I just picked up my first FM synth the other day, a Yamaha reface DX, and of all the videos on programming FM patches I've seen, this is probably the best! Thanks for sharing your approach to FM patch design with us

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the comment Lucas Smith. I'm glad to contribute some ideas for FM programming.

[@raffen79]

Thank you for these vids. I learn a lot from you.

[@HOLOCULT]

I just bought my son a used dx11 and he's only 10 years old and I am not an electronic music player I play guitar but he wants to get into it so I heard a lot about this synth being awesome and now I have somewhat of an idea of how to program some sounds for him that I think he'll really enjoy I really appreciate your content and have subscribed thank you so much

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the compliment. I hope your son enjoys his new synthesizer!

[@greganderson5972]

This is great! FM synth programming is voodoo. This is the best explanation of how it works and how to do it that I've seen. Actually, I think it's the only explanation I've seen. Thanks so much! Time to power up my TX81Z.

[@d-v-f]

Awesome video, thanks!

[@DanielDaniel-ql6oq]

Thanks for the video! I definitely enjoyed some coffee to it, I even had a small cup and dish starting it up and when I saw the tea come out I was like “my guy!” I just got the Dirtywave M8 and am excited to start playing with FM synthesis. Really enjoyed seeing you break down your approach, this is helpful!

[@krmelectronics]

Hi Daniel. I'm really glad you found this helpful.

[@jaimis5377]

i would buy some artisinal honey from this guy but this was a solid explanation for how to go about programming d7 series synths. good work pal!

[@kfirtsairi3986]

wow this is a true phenomenal explanation testimony the best FM synth programming video I've seen. The patch sounded awesome, especially towards the end with the feedback. Very well explained

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the kind comment Kfir.

[@EzyoMusic]

Fantastic video. I love the sound of the DX. I use FL Studio where Sytrus is my synth of choice. It shares some similarities to the DX so the concepts carry over. It can actually read DX7 patches, too. Awesome!

[@liviou2004]

So well explained ! Thank you vert much. It would be good if you could go on this type of technical tutoriel !!

[@jdanielcramer]

Very well thought out, and yes I had tea😺

[@andyisacsson7503]

That was excellent, first time ive ever gotmy head round FM algorithms, thank you 😊

[@krmelectronics]

You are most welcome Andy.

[@Monster_Radio_Man]

I hate finding these channels with such great content and answers to long standing questions only to find that they haven't uploaded a video in two years. Damn you KZbin!!!! lol

[@jloiben12]

I wish there was more content like this. I could do with some brass and strings patch videos like this

[@jerryleemelton1860]

Thank you so much! This video is fantastic! This finally helped FM synthesis click in my head.

[@krmelectronics]

You're welcome Jerry. Once you get how FM works, it opens lots of sound creation possibilities.

[@bretwalda8386]

Mate, that was so useful. Might be worth mentioning this applies to the DX100 and, I'm sure, many others in the range. I was able to follow the logic and recreate the sound almost exactly. I've been looking for a 'recipe book' for basic FM sounds...like, how to make a simple 'strings' or other sounds. It's a good way to learn by recreating common sounds you can then 'screw with'.

[@sketchdashaman]

I miss my DX-100😔

[@drowninreverb9067]

This course is a gem, thank you. I recommend if you can playing with a Hertz Donut MKIII, different approach to FM but based on 80s chips, very interesting sound palette. Quite challenging yet very playable interface.

[@LesterBrunt]

YES!! That is what I thought when you started the video with “I’m gonna go through all my choices and parameters”. I don’t like it when people follow a recipe, that is just a convoluted way to share presets. I want to hear all the stages and find out how and why you decide to do things at the different stages. That’s what’s interesting.

[@drakelacy2358]

This has the best like to dislike ratio I've ever seen... impressed and subscribed!

[@jonas_vcv]

🔥🔥🔥 the best fm synthesis video

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks Jonas. Much appreciated.

[@tonelab]

Best Fm synth tutorial I've seen

[@sanderblom]

That was awesome, Keith. Thx!

[@krmelectronics]

You are most welcome!

[@tehedx]

Nice, this helps a lot in getting the sound that one has in mind! I highly prefer an "I know what I'm doing" approach, rather than just randomly twisting knobs and setting parameters and find out what happens.

[@jrcryo]

Nice tutorial very well detailed!

[@DavidDeLuge]

Such a useful video. Thank you.

[@AntonAnru]

thank you for your FM videos, very nicely explained

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the comment Anton.

[@bayleybaybey]

This is the video that made FM synthesis click for me. Thank you.

[@krmelectronics]

You are welcome Bailey.

[@augustisraelsson2250]

Great video :)

[@BellXllebMusic]

Really good video! Thanks!

[@garaughty]

Excellent tutorial on a much misunderstood subject !

[@henryalfaro9125]

Thanks very much Sr.

[@streck0486]

Finally! Someone who tells me how to actually do something with FM synthesis. Thanks, Keith!

[@krmelectronics]

You're welcome Streck0.

[@bux77]

Great tutorial, going to try it out on my DX21

[@Vergestern]

learned a lot, thank you!

[@novakattila]

Thanks man really helpful stuff!

[@konradhausmann6359]

Thanks so much for this!!

[@philippebackprotips]

Very cool. Using the info to program my MPC'a OPx4 synth

[@cueva_mc]

Great video

[@ghavinga]

Excellent explanation, thank you ;-)

[@derekholland3328]

very well done. cheers.

[@Neuri]

new fave channel

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks Neuri!

[@Gump1224]

Thanks a lot for this, appreciate the effort very much.

[@krmelectronics]

You are welcome, minuteman.

[@MrSilkydrew]

Mmhh Tea!!! Like how you break down a Bass sound.

[@eleanorgiovanni]

wow this is an amazing tutorial! thank you!!

[@hayeye]

thanks Keith

[@garyabbot4659]

From the start, I also sometimes use the feedback as the 'pop for bass'. Feedback is a handy shortcut in terms of harsher waves and hard sounds. Also the only real way to make percussive sounds.

[@ABEHR]

Thanks! I've been reading up on FM synthesis, but it is helpful to see a practical example like this.

[@robertboran6234]

Crystal clear.

[@benanderson89]

Whilst I don't own a DX synthesizer, I DO have a Casio CZ1 and VZ1 which operate on very similar principals (Yamaha DX = Phase Modulation, CZ/VZ = Phase Distortion). This is especially helpful for the VZ, since that's an 8-op synth where you have to manually design your algorithm. I'm adept at programming it but it's still absurdly daunting to use.

[@buckycore]

Dang it that was amazing

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks!

[@dachiklangmusik]

🙏🙏.. helps me also to understand my FS1R 👍

[@DanielGarcia-pr1dd]

Awesome

[@PeasantJay]

Scary skill and nice tea

[@Max-qh7yu]

I’m glad I’ve finally found some nitty gritty tutorials

[@konstantine8054]

~clap clap clap clap clap clap~ Superb tutorial, bravo!

[@krmelectronics]

Thanks for the applause Konstantine!

[@tomj210]

i like this guy

[@imdanielh]

Cool, thx!

[@dissonantprotean5495]

I just got a sudden urge to listen to Sonic boss music after this, no idea why :)

[@joepowers9080]

cheers keith

[@hermask815]

I wish there were more informations on How many basic sounds would be in his list (pop,res,decay and else ???) and their representation in an mini algorithm.(the pop is.., that description) His reasoning how to simplify the "wish" algorithm if you've only got 6 or 4 or 3 operators (starting with a rather big algorithm to see the different steps) The effect of having different waveforms ( tx81z, opsix) and how they simplify the "wish" algorithm. I totally like his top view, machine independent approach.

[@kaidoluht1957]

and deep is how we like it!

[@christopher_bryant]

ty

[@neilk575]

Any chance of more DX tutorials? You explain this so well!

[@HrafnNordhri]

I own a DX9 and at the moment it just stares at me daring me to make a sound. This video helps.. but I wish he would do more 4 operator related tutorials to illustrate things. Then we can get dangerous on our own.

[@wavefolder549]

hi, nice tutorial! i have one question about it: why the release of the modulator is longer the the carrier? it isn't the same thing if you set it at the same value ?

[@mr_whyy]

My next preset I will call: "beard man taught me that"